What are the Martial Arts

What are the Martial Arts?

The martial arts that are studied today are based on ancient techniques from China, Japan, Korea, and many other countries. Karate, Tae Kwon Do, and Judo are some of the forms of martial arts that are taught at Rocky Mountain Karate. Karate originated in Okinawa around the sixth century, and has grown and changed over the years. It was brought to the United States in the early 1900's, and has grown in popularity ever since. Karate means"empty hand", or without weapons. Tae Kwon Do comes from Korea, and it's roots come from a number of Korean systems dating back two thousand years. This martial art form was introduced to the USA in the 1950's. Tae Kwon Do is one of only two martial arts disciplines that are part of Olympic competition; the other is Judo. Tae Kwon Do means "the way of the hand and foot". Judo is Japanese for "the gentle way", and started in Japan in 1882. Judo is a martial art form that is based on an Okinawan unarmed combat system, known as Jujitsu, which dates back over 700 hundred years. As you can see there is great history in the martial arts, and millions of people around the world continue to practice them faithfully.

As with all martial arts, ethics are of great importance in the practice. Some, but not all, of the commandments that govern the study of martial arts include, respect, integrity, responsibility, self-control, and self-confidence. Martial arts are not only a way of self -defense, but a way of life. All these values are taught and demonstrated in each class at Rocky Mountain Karate Association here in Lakewood Colorado.